After we saw the Bmw i3 Concept it’s time to take a look at the all-new i8 Concept. Bmw say that the new car is powered by a high-performance three-cylinder combustion engine capable to deliver 164 kW (220 hp)/300 Nm (221 lb-ft) at the rear. Moreover, the Bmw I8 Concept has also an electric motor capable to power the car on its own. The I8 Concept is capable to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) in under five seconds combined. The combined with fuel consumption in the European cycle of under three litres per 100 kilometres (approx. 94 mpg imp) and average customer fuel consumption of between five and seven litres per 100 kilometres (40.4 – 56.5 mpg imp).
Using only the electric motor, the Bmw i8 Concept can travel up to 35 kilometres (approx. 20 miles), which means that a large proportion of short everyday journeys can therefore be completed with zero emissions. The electric motor is found on the front axle and is capable to recoup maximum energy every time the driver brakes, while a high-voltage alternator hooked up to the combustion engine charges the battery. Regarding the design, the i8 Concept features upward- swivelling doors fixed to the A-pillars and a series of air inlets allow the air to flow through and around the vehicle. Moreover, the electric motor found on the front axle and the combustion engine at the rear are connected by an “energy tunnel”, which houses the high-voltage battery. This means that the car has a low centre of gravity and that it is more stable at higher speeds.
Regarding the interior, here is what the official statement says: “The sporting character of the BMW i8 Concept continues into the interior. Boasting a driver-focused environment unmatched by any BMW Group vehicle before it, the BMW i8 Concept immerses the driver fully in the unique driving experience. The purpose-built driver’s position is geared squarely towards the person at the wheel and gives optimum access to all information and controls. The three-dimensional displays are crystal clear and flash up the relevant information for the driving situation at hand.”
